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Ten ‘lap lounger' dog breeds that need hardly any walking – and are content with 15 minutes or kept happy with a garden

Ten ‘lap lounger' dog breeds that need hardly any walking – and are content with 15 minutes or kept happy with a garden

The Sun23-07-2025
FINDING a dog that matches your lifestyle can be tricky, especially if you're a first-time owner.
While there are plenty of dog breeds we love the look of, their needs and personalities may not be best suited to us.
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Fortunately, a dog expert has shared the 10 top breeds that need the least walking for those with busy lifestyles.
While it's always a good idea to give your dog exercise, smaller breeds typically will need shorter walks and some will even be happy just roaming the garden.
Pug
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While Pugs have a playful and cheeky personality, you don't want to over exercise them.
These pooches have been bred to have an inwards nose, which means they find it hard to catch their breath.
The dog pro at Pet Pyjamas said: " Giving an adult Pug two 20-minute walks a day is the most they will need and then space either in your home or a secure garden for them to play is perfect."
Chow Chow
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Unlike most of the dogs on this list, the Chow Chow is a medium size dog so you'd expect it to need lots of walking.
But these guard dogs would much prefer guarding your home and the garden instead of being dragged on a long walk.
The experts suggest one short walk to keep them happy.
Bichon Frise
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Nicknamed the 'lap lounger,' these small pups aren't a fan of moving off the sofa.
The Bichon Frise prefers to let out short bursts of energy in the form of racing around the garden.
Watch hero puppy Duke defend street from pack of bloodthirsty coyotes fighting off beasts for 45 agonizing minutes
French Bulldog
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The French Bulldog only needs a 15-20 minute walk to keep it healthy so these are perfect for those living in the city or with busy lives.
They are susceptible to heat so it's best to take them out in the early morning or evening when it's cooler.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Unlike other dogs in the spaniel breed, the King Charles Spaniel is all about relaxation.
They love nothing more than curling up on the sofa or on your lap, but can be energetic around kids, making them the perfect family dog.
Shih Tzu
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"The Shih Tzu is a small dog that was bred to sit on its owner's lap," say the dog experts.
A short daily walk will keep them happy but on days you can't get out they'll happily race about the house or garden.
Lhasa Apso
These fluffy dogs were bred as temple watchdogs in Tibet and are happy sitting around and keeping a watch out for trouble.
One or two brief walks a day is enough to keep them satisfied.
Britain's favourite dog breeds
HERE are the top ten dog breeds in the UK....
Labrador Retriever
Renowned for their friendly and outgoing nature.
Popular as both family pets and working dogs.
French Bulldog
Known for their distinctive bat-like ears and affectionate temperament.
Ideal for city living due to their small size.
Cocker Spaniel
Beloved for their playful and loyal disposition.
Excellent companions for active families.
Pug
Recognised for their charming wrinkled faces and sociable nature.
Adaptable to various living environments.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Valued for their courageous and loving character.
Strong and muscular build, yet gentle with children.
Dachshund
Adored for their distinctive long bodies and lively personality.
Comes in a variety of coat types: smooth, wire, and long-haired.
Border Collie
Celebrated for their intelligence and energy.
Excellent working dogs, especially in herding.
Golden Retriever
Known for their friendly and tolerant attitude.
Great family pets and skilled in various service roles.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cherished for their gentle and affectionate nature.
Small size makes them perfect for lap dogs.
German Shepherd
Admired for their loyalty and versatility.
Commonly used in police and military roles due to their trainability.
Skye Terrier
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The Skye Terrier would much prefer digging and chasing cats to long walks.
They're also perfectly happy chilling out on the sofa, so a couple of short walks or playing in the garden will keep them in shape.
Pekingese
Jumping on and off the sofa is the most exercise a Pekingese wants.
While they are happy to have a slow stroll around the park, these are low-active dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
It doesn't take a lot to keep a Yorkshire Terrier exercised.
These small pooches are happy to have a short walk or a good play session if you can't fit one in.
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